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Amoxicillin is a type of penicillin antibiotic. It is a moderate beta-lactam antibiotic, used for the treatment of bacterial infections. It is absorbed easily and hence preferred by the doctors. However, Amoxicillin can be broken down by beta-lactamase producing bacteria and can be given with clavulanic acid. It is available as a product of GlaxoSmithKline under the brand name, Amoxil.

Amoxicillin inhibits the synthesis of bacterial cell walls. The formula is referred to as co-amoxiclav (a name approved by the United Kingdom). However, it is commonly known by its proprietary names, Augmentin and Clamoxyl.

It is usually prescribed to women, children under the age of 8, and people allergic to tetracycline and it can be taken on an empty stomach. Amoxicillin is usually available in form of pills, which can be taken for several weeks.

Who should avoid amoxicillin?

Any patients, with the following complications, should not take Amoxicillin.

* If you have previously suffered from allergic reactions to any type of penicillin or to a cephalosporin, always let your doctor know about such allergies.

* Inform your doctor, if there are any problems related to kidney or infectious mononucleosis. If you take amoxicillin in presence of such disorders there is a big risk of adverse side effects.

* Diabetes patients should be aware of the fact, that amoxicillin can lead to false positive results of the glucose urine tests.

* Amoxicillin belongs to the FDA pregnancy category B drugs. So, if you are pregnant, or planning to conceive, or get pregnant while taking amoxicillin, then it is suggested, that you consult your doctor immediately.

* Amoxicillin passes on to breast milk, therefore it may cause yeast infection, diarrhea, or allergic reactions to the nursing infant, though no serious harm has ever been reported. If you are lactating it is important to seek your doctors' advice before taking amoxicillin.

Some possible side effects

It is advised that medical attention be sought instantly, should any of the following symptoms occur while taking amoxicillin. The consequences of ignoring these side effects could be serious.

* Allergic reactions that result in shortness of breath, closing of the throat, hives, swelling of lips, face, or tongue, rashes on the skin or fainting.

* Seizures

* Severe diarrhea

* Abdominal cramps

* Unexpected bleeding or bruising

Some less debilitating side affects can also result from amoxicillin such as mild nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea, or abdominal pain, yeast infection in the form of white patches on the tongue, vaginal yeast infection, causing itching or vaginal discharge, sore mouth or tongue.

Of course, other side effects are also possible. So if you detect any unusual symptom after taking amoxicillin, talk to your doctor without any delay.

Disclaimer - The information presented here should not be interpreted as or substituted for medical advice. Please talk to your doctor for more information about amoxicillin.